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ABA Therapy FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About ABA Therapy

Families often have important questions when considering ABA therapy for their child. Below you’ll find answers about applied behavior analysis, enrollment steps, insurance coverage, school-based services, and how Empower ABA supports children with autism across New York, New Jersey, and Virginia.

What is autism?

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. The severity of these symptoms can vary greatly, and early diagnosis and intervention can be beneficial in helping individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives.

What is ABA therapy?

ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) is an evidence-based approach designed to help children with autism develop communication, social, behavioral, and daily living skills. It focuses on understanding how behavior is influenced by the environment and uses positive reinforcement to encourage meaningful learning.

Each ABA therapy program is individualized to meet a child’s unique strengths and needs, with treatment plans developed and supervised by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). ABA therapy can take place at home, in school, or in clinical settings, depending on the child’s goals and circumstances.

Is ABA therapy effective for autism?

Yes, ABA therapy is widely recognized as one of the most effective interventions for children with autism. Decades of research support its effectiveness in improving communication skills, social interaction, adaptive behaviors, and independence.

The success of ABA therapy depends on factors such as early intervention, program consistency, and individualized treatment planning. When delivered by qualified professionals and supported by family involvement, ABA therapy can help children with autism build meaningful, long-term skills that improve their quality of life.

Programs begin with a comprehensive assessment conducted by a BCBA. Based on this assessment, individualized goals are created and progress is continuously monitored through data collection. ABA therapy often involves collaboration with parents and educators to ensure skills are practiced consistently across home, school, and community environments.

How does ABA therapy work?

ABA therapy works by breaking down complex skills into smaller, manageable steps and teaching them using structured, data-driven methods. Therapists observe how a child responds to different situations and apply evidence-based ABA techniques to reinforce positive behaviors and reduce behaviors that may interfere with learning.

Programs begin with a comprehensive assessment conducted by a BCBA. Based on this assessment, individualized goals are created and progress is continuously monitored through data collection. ABA therapy often involves collaboration with parents and educators to ensure skills are practiced consistently across home, school, and community environments.

What are some of the symptoms?

Among others, people with autism may have difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication, have trouble understanding social cues, may find it challenging to establish and maintain relationships and may exhibit repetitive behaviors or interests.

I’m concerned my child may be autistic. What should I do?

If you have reason to be concerned, contact a developmental pediatrician or a psychological or neurological specialist to have them evaluated. If you receive an autism diagnosis, contact our team for an assessment so that we can develop a personalized plan for their care without delay. 

What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and who is it for?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientifically-proven therapy used for children with autism. It uses principles of behaviorism to teach new behaviors and decrease challenging ones, by breaking down complex tasks into smaller steps and using positive reinforcement to encourage completion.

How do I know if ABA therapy is right for my child?

If your child has received an autism diagnosis, ABA is the #1 recommended treatment and has proven to be tremendously effective in improving children’s overall function and wellbeing.

How will ABA help my child?

ABA therapy helps children learn and develop functional skills, increase communication and socialization, and improve overall quality of life. ABA is provided by trained professionals and is tailored to meet the specific needs and abilities of each child.

When and where can my child receive ABA therapy?

To accommodate your child, your family and your schedule, we offer care at home, school, or at one of our centers (contact us for locations). We also offer virtual services, if necessary. These services are available seven days a week and at the hour that’s best for you.

Who will be providing care for my child?

Our care is delivered by a licensed and skilled BCBA who evaluates your child and develops a personalized roadmap for success. The BCBA will oversee the work of the RBT who interacts with your child daily. Our case coordinators match your child and family with the team that can best meet your unique needs.

Does Empower ABA provide other services besides ABA therapy?

No. We are strictly an ABA service provider.

Will you work together with my child’s other care providers?

Of course. Mutual cooperation is key to success. If your child has any other therapists or providers, we will set up meetings for team collaboration and discuss all your child’s needs, progress and education.

How much will it cost? Who will pay for it?

ABA therapy is covered by all private health insurance policies and also covered by Medicaid in some states. Contact our office and our insurance team will take the headache off your mind and ensure that your services are fully covered by insurance.

Does Empower ABA offer services in my neighborhood?

Contact our office at 844-222-1173 and we will advise on whether service is available where you live. We are continuing to expand into new regions so that no child is left behind.

How much time do kids spend doing ABA?

We provide daily sessions, each lasting between two and four hours, depending on whether these services are provided during or after school hours.

Do you provide group sessions?

Depending on where you live and whether insurance covers it, we do offer group sessions under the guidance and supervision of one of our BCBA’s.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is here to help. Contact Empower ABA to speak directly with our intake specialists and learn how ABA therapy can support your child.

New Clinic launched in Powhatan, VA

Contact the Empower ABA office today for more details 844-222-1173

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